Perioral dermatitis can be a frustrating and often stubborn skin condition that is thought to affect up to 1 in 100 woman at some point during their lives (1). It typically presents as red, inflamed bumps around the mouth and sometimes the eyes. While the exact cause can vary—ranging from different times during your life such as pregnancy, weather changes or even fluoride toothpaste—managing this condition requires a gentle and strategic approach to skincare.
Understanding Perioral Dermatitis
Before diving into the product recommendations and skincare routine, it’s important to understand what perioral dermatitis is and why it occurs. Perioral dermatitis is an inflammatory rash that often surrounds the mouth and, in some cases, extends to the nose and eyes. It can be triggered by various factors, including:
- Topical Steroids: Prolonged use of topical steroids on the face is a common trigger (TSW).
- Cosmetics: Certain makeup products can irritate the skin and cause a flare-up.
- Toothpaste: Fluoride toothpaste has been linked to perioral dermatitis in some individuals.
- Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormones, particularly in women, can trigger outbreaks (eg. pregnancy).
- Environmental Factors: Harsh weather, extreme temperatures, and pollution can exacerbate the condition.
Key Principles in Managing Perioral Dermatitis
Managing perioral dermatitis requires a delicate balance between treating the symptoms and preventing further irritation. Here are the key principles to keep in mind:
- Gentleness is Key: Avoid harsh cleansers, exfoliants, and other products that can strip the skin or cause irritation.
- Moisturize and Protect: Keeping the skin hydrated is crucial, but you’ll want to use a moisturizer that is free of fragrances, alcohol, and other potential irritants.
- Simplify Your Routine: Stick to a basic skincare routine to avoid overwhelming your skin with too many products.
- Avoid Known Triggers: Identify and avoid personal triggers, whether they be specific foods, skincare ingredients, or environmental factors.
Recommended Products for Perioral Dermatitis
To manage perioral dermatitis effectively, consider incorporating the following products into your skincare routine:
1. Use A Gentle Cleanser
If you need to remove makeup from the day, or want to wash your face with a cleanser, be sure to stick to a gentle, non-foaming cleanser that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils. Look for one with calming ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, or cucumber extract. Avoid any product with sulfates, which can be too harsh for sensitive skin.
Try: Grahams Natural Anti Redness Wash
2. Keep Your Skin Hydrated
One of the most effective products for managing perioral dermatitis is the Grahams Natural Face & Eyelid Eczema Cream. This cream is specially formulated to soothe and repair sensitive skin affected by perioral dermatitis and eczema.
- Natural Ingredients: The cream is enriched with natural ingredients like Manuka Honey, Colloidal Oatmeal, and Calendula, all known for their anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties.
- Safe for Sensitive Areas: It is gentle enough to be used on sensitive areas like the face and eyelids, making it ideal for treating the delicate skin affected by perioral dermatitis.
- Moisturizing and Protective: The cream provides deep hydration without clogging pores or causing additional irritation, which is essential for calming flare-ups and preventing dryness.
Using this cream consistently can help reduce redness, soothe irritation, and improve the overall appearance of the skin.
3. Avoid Irritants
If you know that your favourite makeup product is irritating your skin, steer clear of it for a week or two, until the flare up begins to calm. If you must use products such as makeup, ensure that you have moisturized your skin beforehand to create a 'barrier layer' for the skin.
Additional Tips for Managing Perioral Dermatitis
- Avoid Triggers: Identify and avoid known triggers, such as specific skincare ingredients, certain foods, or stress.
- Be Patient: Perioral dermatitis can take time to resolve, so be consistent with your skincare routine and give your skin time to heal.
- Avoid Touching Your Face: Refrain from touching or picking at the affected areas to prevent further irritation and potential infection.
- Use a Humidifier: If you live in a dry climate or use indoor heating, consider using a humidifier to add moisture to the air and prevent your skin from drying out.
- Check your space: Did you know things like black mould can cause/irritate skin conditions? If you experience a flare up and can't get to the bottom of it, ensure to check your surroundings to see if black mould could be the cause of a flare up!
Managing perioral dermatitis requires a careful and consistent skincare routine that emphasizes gentleness, hydration, and the avoidance of known triggers. By incorporating products like Grahams Natural Face & Eyelid Eczema Cream into your routine, you can soothe irritation, reduce inflammation, and support your skin’s healing process. Remember that every skin is different, so it’s important to listen to your skin’s needs and adjust your routine accordingly. With the right approach, you can effectively manage perioral dermatitis and achieve healthier, calmer skin.
